Brisbane woman sends $305,000 to alleged scammer posing as US soldier
A Queensland man has been charged after posing as a United States soldier online and forming a romantic relationship with a woman who sent him $305,000 all in the name of love.
The Queensland Police Service’s Financial and Cyber Crime Group charged a 32-year-old Durack man with fraud and attempted fraud following an investigation into romance and online scams.
An investigation was sparked when the victim, a 34-year-old Brisbane woman, contacted police.
Police will allege the woman became involved with the man who claimed to be a soldier on a social media platform in October 2018.
"Over the course of the following months, the victim was groomed into believing the stories provided by the criminal and formed an online romantic relationship," a police spokesman said.
"The victim sent over $200,000 to the “US soldier” via a series of transfers through a money transfer service."
Detective Superintendent Terry Lawrence of the State Crime Command’s Financial and Cyber Crime Group said this was becoming a frequent case but "it was what came next that caused concern".
The alleged offender had travelled to the victim's home to get another $105,000 but the victim became suspicious and after confiding in a close friend, she reported the matter to police.
Detectives underwent a tactical operation on Thursday, which led to the arrest of the man while he was attempting to persuade the victim to hand over more money.
A Durack address was raided and a number of items used in the commission of these crimes were found by detectives.
Superintendent Terry Lawrence said this was a common scam worldwide.
“The US Army Criminal Investigation Command receives hundreds of complaints a month from people who find themselves involved in an online relationship with someone purporting to be a US soldier," he said.
"Usually the offender's interaction with the victim is all online so this further step of travelling to the victim’s home is certainly something we need the public to hear and be warned of today."
Superintendent Lawrence urged those using social media platforms to develop friendships or relationships online to stay alert.
"I know emotions may make that harder but arm yourself with the knowledge that these scams are occurring to everyday members of the community like you," he said.
“Take the time to evaluate the relationship, talk to friends and other loved ones about your new relationship online. We are thankful the victim in this instance took this step."
He was set to appear in the Brisbane Magistrates Court on Friday.
Investigations are continuing.